Inca

Ancestor Worship: A practice where the Incas honored their dead leaders, believing they had spiritual power and could offer advice.

The Andes: A big mountain range in western South America that shaped the Inca Empire's land, made some areas hard to reach, and provided natural protection.

Atahualpa: The last strong ruler of the Incas who fought his brother for control, was captured by the Spanish in a surprise attack, and was later executed.

Cuzco: The capital city of the Inca Empire that was very important for politics and religion; its control was crucial for power.

Francisco Pizarro: The Spanish leader who conquered the Incas by taking advantage of their internal conflicts and tricking their ruler, Atahualpa.

Incan Civil War: A conflict between two brothers for the Inca throne that weakened the empire, making it easier for the Spanish to invade.

Mit’a System: A labor system where people worked on public projects instead of paying taxes, which was later abused by the Spanish conquerors.

Mitma System: A practice of moving conquered communities to spread Inca culture while causing resentment and disrupting local identities.

Road Network: A vast system of roads in the Inca Empire that helped with travel and communication, later used by the Spanish for their conquest.

Split Inheritance: A way of passing power where the ruler's authority went to their heir, but their wealth stayed with their family, leading to competition for resources.

Quechua: The main language of the Inca Empire, which helped unify different groups and is still spoken by millions today.

Quipu: A method of keeping records using knotted cords, which allowed the Incas to manage information effectively, although it was seen as simple by others.